Hoffenheim coach Huub Stevens stepped down on Wednesday, citing heart problems with the team struggling in the Bundesliga.

The 62-year-old Dutchman told reporters he had quit after being diagnosed with heart arrhythmia that may require surgery.

'I am sorry to be leaving the club in this difficult situation but I think everyone will understand that my health takes priority,' Stevens, told a news conference. 'I took my decision following the advice of doctors.

Huub Stevens has stepped down from his role as manager of Hoffenheim due to heart problems

The 62-year-old said it would have been a big risk to his health for him to continue at the club

'You have to be 100 per cent fit and I am not. It was a big risk for me to continue. I don't have a lot of years left, but I want to make the most of the ones I have left,' he said.

Stevens, who saved Stuttgart from relegation in the past two seasons after twice taking over midway through the campaigns, replaced Markus Gisdol at Hoffenheim in October.

But after 10 matches in charge Hoffenheim have managed one victory and are languishing in 17th place on 14 points, level with bottom side Hannover 96.